After two years of lockdowns and intermittent online learning, parents and families were officially welcomed back to St Francis Xavier primary school in a colourful celebration of what students have achieved.
The small Corio school welcomed over 300 parents, extended family members and local dignitaries into its classrooms.
St Francis Xavier principal Maria Scala said the event was a positive and reaffirming experience for students, families, visitors and staff alike.
“It was our official welcome back, to say school’s open, your children have done great work, we’ve survived COVID,” Mrs Scala said.
“A lot of parents have been worried about what their kids did or didn’t know, how their learning had progressed, but today it was evident. When they came in and saw the work they’ve been doing it blew a lot of parents’ expectations away.
“I got an email immediately after from someone saying how they could see all the work his grandson had done and how proud his grandson was to take him around and show him his work. His grandson is in prep.”
Mrs Scala said families and students had demonstrated their appreciation of the work her staff had done throughout the tough times.
“In my opening address I acknowledged the dedicated and passionate staff who go over and beyond to ensure the students are happy, safe and flourishing,” she said.
“The applause from the students and families reiterated my acknowledgement with theirs. They know staff have done it tough, and it was great for the staff to see it and hear it.”
Member for Lara John Eren spoke at the beginning of the event after taking part in a smoking ceremony conducted by David Tournier.
“David was wonderful, he did the smoking ceremony and the welcome to country,” Mrs Scala said.
“He explained it all to the crowd, and I had so many parents say to me how they never knew the meaning of it all before then.
“Then John Eren spoke and cut the ribbon, which signified the opening of the celebration. It signified to the parents, go and check out your students’ work because you’ll be so proud of it.”
